It's only fitting that the upcoming second annual Rick Austin Memorial 5K Walk-Run will finish on the newly reconstructed track that was dedicated in his name at Livonia Churchill High's Charger Stadium.

The school's longtime track and field coach, who died unexpectedly in March 2017 at age 57 from complications following heart surgery, would probably be grinning from ear to ear.

The five-kilometer race begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, in the Churchill High parking lot and will wind through the neighborhoods surrounding the high school with the finish on the track that was dedicated in his honor Oct. 13, 2017.

Proudly honoring the memory of Rick Austin by organizing a 5k run/walk in his honor last year were (from left) son Travis, daughter-in-law Becca, daughter Kaylin and wife Annette. The second annual race begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10 at Livonia Churchill H.S.(Photo: COURTESY RICK AUSTIN FAMILY)

Austin was a fixture in the school's athletic programs. He also taught business education at Churchill at the Livonia Public Schools Career Center.

Austin was 1978 Churchill grad and former standout hurdler who went on to coach at his alma mater for 21 years, starting in 1996 when he replaced his former coach Fred Price. Austin guided the Chargers to one regional, three conference and six division track and field titles.

A Central Michigan University grad who ran track for the Chippewas, Austin started his coaching career at Dearborn High and was also the Churchill varsity boys basketball coach for five years.

Last year, more than 300 registered for the Austin Memorial 5K and all proceeds will go toward the Churchill Athletic Patrons to help support the school's athletic programs.

"We're just blessed to be able to do this the second year in a row," said Annette Austin, wife of the late Churchill coach. "We plan to continue to do it annually in Rick's honor."

Registration fees are $20 for students (ages 13-18) and $25 for adults. You can register online at a2racemanagement/registration. Packet pickup will be 4:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9, at the Churchill Fieldhouse.

The overall men's and women's winners will earn a gift certificate from Running Fit. Age-group award winners will also receive gift certificates donated by more than 50 local businesses.

For more information, email chscapfunrun@gmail.com or go to Facebook (Rick Austin Memorial 5K).

Contact Brad Emons at bemons@hometownlife.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BradEmons1.